Western Mass Pioneers Midfielder Maxi Viera Receives PDL Playoff Goal of the Year
Maxi Viera of Western Mass Pioneers receives PDL Playoff Goal of the Year honors for his top left corner strike versus Reading United AC. Fans were able to vote from a selection of the top 10 goals scored throughout the PDL playoffs with Viera receiving 48% of the votes.
PDL Soccer News: Even though the Western Mass Pioneers lost in the first round of the playoffs at Reading United AC by a 3-1 score, the amazing strike by midfielder Maxi Viera was recognized as the Goal of the PDL Playoffs.
“Maxi’s goal in the playoffs was amazing” commented head coach Federico Molinari. “He had a very good season and he deserved to win the Goal of the PDL Playoffs award.”
The PDL selected the 10 best goals from the playoffs from the 73 scored. The PDL then had a poll for seven days where fans could vote once a day for their favorite. Viera won the honor by receiving 48% of the votes. The next closest was Pedro Espindola from FC Tucson, with 36% of the votes.
Viera remarked “winning the Goal of the PDL Playoffs was nice, but it was even better realizing all the support I have from the Pioneers family, my American friends, my friends in Uruguay and especially my family who encouraged people to vote for me 24/7. I would like to thank everyone once more who took time to vote for my goal.”
Maxi Viera shot was an incredible top left corner blast off a volley pass from Evan Burokas.
Reflecting on the goal, Viera stated “I was on the right side of the field and when I saw my teammate Evan (Burokas) getting the ball and facing forward, I started to make a run across the defenders like coach Molinari always encourages us to do. Evan played me an excellent pass over the defender that left me one on one with their goal keeper, whom I noticed was outside his position. I decided to strike the ball with my first touch, and it went in.”
The Western Mass Pioneers return to the field for their annual “Festa” game at Lusitano Stadium on Sunday, September 4, at 3 PM. The Pioneers will host the Portuguese Club of Hartford. Admission will be FREE!
“We look forward to hosting The Portuguese Club of Hartford” stated game organizer Jorge Ferreira. “We (the Gremio Lusitano Club) have a friendly rivalry with them, and can’t wait to play in front of the fans during the Festa.” Visit here for more information on season tickets and camps, available now.
Source/Photo Credit: Western Mass Pioneers
